Updated guidance calls for second staircases in tall residential buildings

The Government has updated its guidance calling for second staircases in all new tall residential buildings over 18 metres.

The change adds to other new fire safety measures and reforms, such as the Building Safety Act.

As part of the Grenfell Tower Inquiry’s recommendations, existing tall buildings are also being considered. The Home Office is currently considering responses to their consultation on personal emergency evacuation plans, to which a response will be published in due course.

Last year, following a public consultation, the government announced its intent to set a threshold height of 18 metres above which a second staircase should be provided in residential buildings. This change reflects views of experts including the National Fire Chiefs Council and Royal Institute of British Architects.

In October, transitional arrangements were confirmed which set the timeframe for the new regulations and strike a fair balance between giving developers enough time to make the required changes.

Lee Rowley, minister for housing, said: “The change in guidance to include two staircases for buildings over 18 metres provides clarity for developers and ensures both new and existing buildings provide safe and secure homes for all residents.”

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